What is Phadiatop IgE?
Phadiatop IgE is a composite in vitro diagnostic assay intended for initial screening of sensitization to common airborne allergens. The test measures the presence of specific IgE antibodies in serum or plasma, which is a sign of an IgE-mediated (type I) allergic reaction. The assay is based on immunochemical methodology and is usually performed using fluoroenzyme immunoassay (FEIA) on systems such as ImmunoCAP.
Phadiatop is designed as a mixed test where several allergen extracts are combined in a single test tube. A positive response indicates that the patient is sensitized to at least one of the included allergens. This makes the test particularly suitable as a first step in the investigation of non-specific allergic symptoms related to the upper and lower respiratory tract, such as allergic rhinitis or asthma.
Contents and allergen panel
Phadiatop contains a panel of commonly occurring inhalant allergens in temperate climates, including:
- Birch pollen
- Timothy pollen (grass pollen)
- Grey bee pollen
- House dust mite (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus)
- Cat
- Dog
- Horse
- Mold (e.g. Cladosporium herbarum)
These allergens constitute a representative set of the most common sources of sensitization in individuals with atopic disposition in Europe.
Indication and clinical use
Phadiatop is recommended for the investigation of suspected IgE-mediated respiratory allergy where there is no clear suspicion of a specific source. The test has high sensitivity (>90%) for detecting the presence of allergy-related IgE antibodies, and is often used to exclude atopic disease in non-specific respiratory symptoms. A negative result strongly suggests the presence of sensitization to the included allergens.
In the event of a positive test result, a reflex analysis is often performed against the individual components (e.g. birch, cat, mites, etc.) to identify specific sensitization. Phadiatop can thus be used as a decision support for further allergy diagnostics or treatment.
Preanalytical aspects
The analysis is performed on venous blood, and no special preparations are required from the patient. The test can be taken independently of ongoing antihistamine treatment and is not affected by acute allergic symptoms, making it useful even during allergy season.
Interpretation of results
Phadiatop is reported as a qualitative result: positive (IgE detectable) or negative (IgE not detectable). If the subsequent analyses against individual allergens do not show any sensitization, the overall test result is interpreted as negative. However, it is important to remember that the test only detects sensitization – not clinical allergy. The result must always be interpreted in relation to the patient's symptoms and history.
Medical follow-up
In the event of a positive test result, we offer free follow-up with a licensed physician. The physician interprets the result in the context of your clinical picture and, if necessary, can prescribe further tests, treatment or prescriptions for symptom-relieving medications such as antihistamines or nasal steroids.
